The best 80 Capitalism & The Free Market books

Fooled by Randomness (2001) is a collection of essays on the impact of randomness on financial markets and life itself. Through a mixture of statistics, psychology and philosophical reflection, the author outlines how randomness dominates the world.

The Road to Serfdom (1944) explains the potential of socialist systems to become totalitarian and why this was so significant after WWII. These blinks will show you how socialist planning can lead to a loss of freedom, individuality and democracy.

In 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism Ha-Joon Chang destroys the biggest myths of our current economic approach. He explains how, despite what most economists believe, there are many things wrong with free market capitalism. As well as explaining the problems, Chang also offers possible solutions which could help us build a better, fairer world.

Economics: The User’s Guide lays out the foundational concepts of economics in an easily relatable and compelling way. Examining the history of economics as well as some critical changes to global economic institutions, this book will teach you everything you need to know about how economics works today.

Coined (2015) offers an in-depth explanation of money, a powerful and complex force that many of us take for granted. It examines money’s historical roots and explains the relationship between it and our emotions, while offering theories on the future evolution of money.

No Ordinary Disruption (2015) details four forces that are changing the world’s markets in profound ways. These blinks show you how the business world, the jobs that support it and the market that shapes it are transforming and what companies, governments and individuals need to do to not only survive but succeed in this new world order.

The Box (2006) tells the tale of modern transportation’s poster child, the container, and how it revolutionized the shipping industry and enabled globalization. These blinks will take you on a detailed journey through this seemingly simple but revolutionary change in global systems of trade.

Saving Capitalism (2015) is a biting critique of the world’s economic order but also an optimistic look into how capitalism could support the common good. These blinks will teach you how and why capitalism is failing most people, and where it needs to go to do right by the majority.

Buffett (1995) tells the tale of Warren Buffett, from his humble beginnings as a boy with a paper route for the Washington Post to his success as one of the newspaper’s largest shareholder. But of course, that’s not all. Today, Warren Buffett is one of the world’s wealthiest people and one of its biggest philanthropists. Find out how he got there, and how he applies his unique mix of hard work, consistency and frugality.

Peers Inc (2015) provides an insider’s look at how the modern sharing economy is changing the way companies and consumers do business. It also explains how this economy may be a cure for the planet’s many ills, from rising temperatures to dwindling resources.

Empire of Cotton (2014) chronicles the long and complex history of that fluffy plant – cotton. These blinks detail how the cotton industry connected the world from Manchester, England, to rural India, while describing the incredible impact that cotton production has had on the development of economic systems.

Inventing the Future (2015) is a radical manifesto for the political left. These blinks describe why the current political tactics of the left are failing, explain how neoliberalism has become today’s dominant global ideology and propose a future based on full automation and a universal basic income.

The Common Good (2018) is a call for Americans to try and work toward the collective good once again, rather than continue along the path of “whatever-it-takes-to-win,” which has been the overriding mentality for the last few decades. The author outlines the importance of the common good and how we should go about restoring it.

Drawing on powerful arguments and demonstrating extraordinary insights, in The Managerial Revolution (1941) James Burnham investigates the rise of a new ruling class – the managers – who promised to unseat wealthy capitalists from their prime position in the mid-twentieth-century economy. Although written over seven decades ago, the themes and arguments from this book still resonate in today’s society.

Crushing It in Apartments and Commercial Real Estate (2017) provides a peek at the secrets behind the author’s phenomenal success in the real-estate market. Full of readily applicable advice for prospective investors, the book will also help established property owners make the most of their real estate. Along the way, the author shares examples from his many years working in the industry.

Capitalism (2015) chronicles the history of the dominant socioeconomic system that society runs on today. From its humble beginnings in medieval Europe to its present global dominance, capitalism’s history is marked by its dynamic – and sometimes unstable – nature. Nevertheless, its influence on how society has developed over the last 200 years is paramount to understanding the modern human condition.

Capitalism Without Capital (2017) is an account of the growing importance of the intangible economy. Today, for the first time, most developed economies are investing less in tangible, physical assets such as machinery and factories, than in intangible assets such as software, research and development capability. These intangibles are hugely valuable but do not exist in physical form. The blinks ahead explore the nature of this trend, as well as its effects on business, the economy and public policy.

Capitalism and Freedom (1962) is one of the most influential discussions of the relationship between economic and political freedom to have ever been put to paper. Written at the height of the Cold War between Soviet socialism and Western capitalism, Milton Friedman argues that only free markets can guarantee liberty. His theory remains every bit as relevant and thought-provoking today as when it was first published.

How to Be a Capitalist Without Any Capital (2019) unlocks the secrets of the capitalist system to show budding entrepreneurs how to make big bucks without burning the candle at both ends. Packed with creative hacks and actionable advice, self-made multimillionaire Nathan Latka demolishes the myth that you need a ton of money or a dazzlingly original idea to get rich. So what do you do need? Simple: a willingness to break established rules and chart your own course.

The Third Pillar (2019) traces the evolving relationship between the three “pillars” of human life – the state, markets and communities – from the medieval period to our own age. Economist Raghuram Rajan argues that, throughout history, societies have struggled to find a sustainable balance between these pillars. Today is no different: caught between uncontrolled markets and a discredited state, communities everywhere are in decline. That, Rajan concludes, is jet fuel for populist movements. But a more balanced kind of social order is possible.

The Future of Capitalism (2018) offers a candid analysis of capitalism that calls for a return to communitarian ethics to mend rifts between families, communities and nations. Diagnosing the failings of modern liberalism, Paul Collier proposes the reintroduction into economic thinking of ethical concerns. He also suggests pragmatic policies that might forge a capitalism that works for everyone.

Americana (2017) traces the history of the USA from one key perspective: capitalism. Bhu Srinivasan shows how the development of the country has been closely bound up with the development of capitalism, from the New England colonies’ earliest days to the most recent innovations of Silicon Valley or Wall Street.

Named by The Economist as one of the best books of 2017

Narrative Economics (2019) describes how popular narratives influence the way economies behave. From Bitcoin’s sudden rise to stock-market crashes, Narrative Economics looks beyond the statistics to the collective human stories that drive these events. 

Reimagining Capitalism in a World on Fire (2020) asks us to rethink the way our economic system functions if we’re to survive our current crises, like climate change, inequality, and authoritarian populism. In this guide to the future, Rebecca Henderson describes how we must instill purpose into our business ventures, so that they create shared value, rather than merely shareholder value.

The Virtue of Selfishness (1964) is an argument in favor of self-interest and capitalist economics. At the time of its publication, it was a bold and original assertion of a new moral creed. This daring work is sure to challenge many deeply held ideals.

Capitalism, Socialism and Democracy (1942) is a seminal work of economics. Its ideas have proven prophetic, and remain relevant to this day. It claims that capitalism will ultimately be eroded by the very processes that define it. It also explains the differences between capitalism and socialism and their relationship to democracy, and helps readers understand the role of entrepreneurship and creative destruction in modern capitalism.

A Brief History of Motion (2021) provides a revealing overview of the history, and possible future, of the automobile. From the invention of the wheel, to early steam engine contraptions and the enticing promises of automated cars, you’ll find out how these vehicles changed the course of human history, and the unexpected problems they’ve caused along the way. 

How to be a Conservative (2014) presents the case for traditional conservatism in a world that seems inhospitable to its existence. In this short volume, English philosopher Sir Roger Scruton lays out the case for the nation-state, a free market, and a more sensible approach to multiculturalism and human rights.

Financial Feminism (2022) debunks the money myths and exposes the systemic oppression that keeps many stuck in toxic jobs or cycles of debt. Offering practical solutions that everyone can start today to close the wage gap, ramp up financial fitness, and build the life of their dreams.

It’s OK to be Angry About Capitalism (2023) is a critique of the economic and political system in the US. It offers a blueprint on how to move past unbridled capitalism onto a fairer and freer future.

The Myth of American Inequality (2022) corrects widespread misconceptions about inequality in the United States. Taking aim at misleading official statistics, it shows that poverty has all but disappeared in today’s America and that the gap between rich and “poor” isn’t nearly as large as many people assume. 

Power Failure (2022) details the rise and fall of General Electric – once a great success story of international business.  But its legacy went badly awry, as even casual consumers of business news will remember. Power Failure: The Rise and Fall of an American Icon (2022) gives a startlingly detailed account inside the behemoth corporation, examining what went right – and then wrong.

Money Men (2022) is the astonishing story of the rise and fall of Wirecard. Once described as the PayPal of Europe, it took a small group of analysts, whistleblowers, and the tenacity of one journalist to finally bring this house of cards down.

Brave New World (1932) is a dystopian novel set in a world where citizens are socially engineered to be complacent and pleasure-seeking. It’s a world that worships Henry Ford –⁠ a scaled-up version of an assembly line that’s mass produced, homogenous, and ultimately consumable. 

The End of the World Is Just Beginning (2022) asks what happens if or when the United States stops policing the global order it established after the Second World War. The short answer is that the world as we know it will come to a grinding, potentially violent halt. The longer answer takes us on a thrilling ride through the politics and economics of trade, energy, and foreign policy. 

American Psycho (1991) is a controversial cult novel that uses graphic violence to satirize modern capitalism and consumer culture. It follows the life of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and handsome investment banker living in Manhattan in the 1980s. Beneath his polished exterior lies a psychopathic killer who preys on his victims without remorse. Bateman’s exploits quickly grow more and more extreme, and his mask of sanity starts to slip.

Profit Over People (1999) is a deep dive into the often hidden world of neoliberalism, revealing how global power structures and US policies are influenced by corporate interests. You’ll be taken on a journey that uncovers an economic system geared toward the affluent, often to the detriment of the many.

Death of a Salesman (1949) is widely regarded as one of the twentieth century’s greatest plays. A poignant critique of the promises and pitfalls of capitalism and the American Dream, it follows the salesman Willy Loman, his increasingly tense relationships with his family and colleagues, and his tragic, hallucinatory descent into fantasy and madness. 

Basic Economics (2000) provides a broad yet comprehensive introduction to economic principles, without requiring a background in the subject. Avoiding complicated jargon, it explains core economic concepts in plain English, with the help of real-life examples. 

Flash Boys (2014) is an investigation into the dark underbelly of the US financial markets. It also chronicles the birth of a new stock exchange, the IEX, created to counteract a rigged system that was facilitated by technological loopholes and a lack of transparency.

How to Day Trade for a Living (2015) propels you into the exhilarating world of day trading, equipping you with proven strategies and insights for consistent income. This no-nonsense guide demystifies complex concepts, revealing how you can turn the stock market into your personal ATM.

The General Theory of Employment (1936) is a deep dive into the complexities of economic activity and employment. It critically examines how factors like interest rates, human psychology, and speculation influence investment and, ultimately, employment. It argues for more direct intervention by public authorities in organizing investment to mitigate instabilities, particularly during periods of economic downturn.

Atlas Shrugged (1957) plunges you into a dystopian America where the economy stagnates and society crumbles. As you navigate this complex narrative, you'll meet ambitious industrialists and scheming bureaucrats, and encounter the enigmatic question, "Who is John Galt?" Prepare to grapple with philosophical themes of capitalism, individualism, and self-interest in this intricate web of economics, politics, and human resilience.

Capital (1867) represents a groundbreaking analysis of money and its many roles at the height of the industrial revolution. By focusing on the exploitation of the working class, the text challenges traditional economic theories and frames a capitalist economy as a system inherently leading to social inequality and class struggle.

Trading in the Zone (2001) is a deep dive into the psychological aspects of stock trading. It presents a view into a trader's mind, identifying how fear and overconfidence often lead to financial downfall. It also offers a practical framework to manage risk, navigate uncertainties, and develop a winning mindset – enabling anyone to overcome emotional barriers and make more consistent and profitable trades.

Conscious Capitalism (2013) outlines a new vision of enlightened business built on higher purpose that serves all major stakeholders, not just shareholders. It provides insights and examples for creating passionate, value-driven corporate cultures that bring out the best in people.

The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (1905) argues that the work ethic and values of early Protestant sects like Calvinism strongly influenced the development of capitalism in Western Europe. Weber's classic text traces these cultural origins, exploring how religious changes catalyzed the rise of modern economic systems by reshaping mindsets surrounding work, enterprise, and the accumulation of wealth.

A Tale of Two Cities (1859) is a historical novel set against the backdrop of the tumultuous times of the French Revolution and London in the late eighteenth century. The story revolves around the lives of Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat, and Sydney Carton, a dissolute English lawyer, who share a striking physical resemblance. As the novel unfolds, it explores themes of sacrifice, resurrection, and the stark contrast between the two cities of Paris and London, ultimately culminating in a powerful and emotionally charged climax.

When McKinsey Comes to Town (2022) is a riveting deep dive into how the world’s most powerful consulting firm fosters inequality, corruption, and global instability. It examines McKinsey’s ties to controversial industries and governments, and reveals the stark contrast between the firm’s lofty values and its actions – from incentivizing opioid prescriptions to supporting authoritarian regimes. 

To Dye For (2023) exposes how the fashion industry harms human health and exploits workers through its use of toxic dyes and lack of supply chain transparency. It delves into the environmental and human costs behind our clothes, while also spotlighting companies innovating health-conscious dyes and production methods. Ultimately, it challenges consumers to make informed choices in order to pressure brands to clean up one of the world’s dirtiest industries.

Capital and Ideology (2019) delves into the historical evolution and justification of economic inequality across various societies and ideological systems. It scrutinizes the roles of property relations and educational structures in consolidating wealth and power, concluding with proposals for progressive policies to mitigate prevailing inequalities.

The House of Morgan (1990) chronicles the influential Morgan dynasty, who shaped the course of modern finance through their shrewd financial acumen and keen understanding of world economic currents. This portrait, spanning four generations, details the rise of the Morgans from Victorian London to their pinnacle during the 1987 financial crisis. 

The Capitalist Manifesto (2023) delves into the transformative power of free markets, arguing that capitalism has historically led to unprecedented prosperity and technological progress. It asserts that the global free market system holds the key to solving world challenges, emphasizing capitalism’s role in fostering economic growth and innovation.

Capitalist Realism (2009) offers an analysis of how contemporary society is shaped and constrained by capitalist ideology. You'll explore the concept of “capitalist realism” – the pervasive sense that no alternative to capitalism is possible. This influential work challenges you to consider the psychological and cultural impacts of living under such a dominant economic system, prompting a reevaluation of societal structures and personal beliefs.

Too Big to Fail (2009) draws you into the heart of the 2008 financial crisis, revealing the high-stakes decisions and power struggles that shaped the world's economic landscape at that time. This gripping narrative untangles a complex web of financial intrigue, and will help you understand the forces that drove one of the most tumultuous periods in financial history.

Milton Friedman (2023) provides a nuanced biography of the influential free-market economist. Tracing Friedman's groundbreaking work across diverse policy areas, it explores his instrumental role in the rise of modern American conservatism and free market ideology. 

Good for Business (2009) delves into the transformative journey of modern corporations, underscoring their shift toward prioritizing purpose beyond profit, humanized leadership, corporate consciousness, and collaborative partnerships. It illustrates how these key elements are essential in building a strong, authentic corporate brand that not only attracts loyal customers but also makes a meaningful social difference. This approach positions corporate culture and social responsibility at the heart of brand strategy.

The Society of the Spectacle (1967) plunges into an intricate world where media, culture, and consumerism converge, shaping perceptions and experiences. It’s a journey through a labyrinth of modern life's illusions, offering insights on discerning reality amidst the dazzling distortions and finding your path in a world awash with reflective deceits.

The Technology Trap (2019) explores the impact of technological progress on economic and political dynamics throughout history. It draws rich parallels between the Industrial Revolution and the current age of automation, highlighting the potential for both long-term progress and short-term disruption.

The Everything War (2024) is an investigative exposé revealing Amazon’s relentless strategies to dominate the world’s industries. It details how Amazon uses its vast resources and data to outcompete rivals, often resorting to exploitative practices and anticompetitive behavior. What does it really take to own the world and remake corporate powers?

The Shortest History of Economics (2024) explores the hidden economic forces that have shaped human history. It examines how capitalism and market systems emerged, linking economic developments to major historical events from the rise of agriculture to modern conflicts. 

The Whole Story (2024), offers a candid account of Whole Foods Market’s journey from a small natural foods store to a global retail giant. It interweaves personal reflections with business insights, chronicling the challenges and triumphs that shaped both the company and the natural foods industry as a whole.

In "The Dream of Solomeo," Brunello Cucinelli shares the inspiring story of how he transformed a small, medieval village in Italy into a thriving center for art, culture, and ethical business practices. Through his own experiences and reflections, Cucinelli offers valuable insights into the power of creativity, craftsmanship, and community in creating a more meaningful and sustainable way of life. This book is a testament to the potential for positive change and the pursuit of a higher purpose in both business and society.

A Companion to Marx's Capital by David Harvey is an essential guide for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Karl Marx's influential work. Harvey offers a detailed analysis of Capital and its relevance to our modern economic and political landscape. With clear explanations and insightful commentary, this book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in the critique of capitalism.

American Colossus by H. W. Brands is a comprehensive history of the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It delves into the rise of industrialization, the expansion of railroads, the emergence of big business, and the impact of these developments on American society and politics. Brands offers a compelling analysis of this transformative period in American history.

Platform Capitalism by Nick Srnicek explores the rise of digital platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Amazon, and their impact on the economy and society. Srnicek argues that these platforms have transformed the way we produce and consume goods and services, creating new forms of power and control. He also discusses the potential for alternative, more democratic forms of platform capitalism.

Postmodernism, or, The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism by Fredric Jameson explores the complexities of postmodernism and its relationship to late capitalism. Jameson delves into the ways in which cultural and artistic expressions reflect and interact with the economic and social structures of our time, offering a thought-provoking analysis of our contemporary world.

The Limits to Capital (1982) by David Harvey offers a critical analysis of the dynamics of capitalist accumulation. Harvey examines how capital operates within the framework of Marxian economics, exploring its spatial and temporal dimensions. He argues that the inherent contradictions and limits of capital accumulation lead to recurring crises and uneven development. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional economic theories and provides valuable insights into the workings of the global economy.

The Origin of Capitalism by Ellen Meiksins Wood explores the historical development of capitalism and challenges conventional theories about its origins. Wood argues that capitalism did not emerge naturally from the growth of trade and commerce, but rather was a result of specific social and political conditions in Europe. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the economic system that has shaped the modern world.

The Mystery of Capital by Hernando de Soto delves into the crucial role of property rights in economic development. Through extensive research and analysis, the book explores how the lack of formal property rights in many developing countries hinders their citizens from unlocking the true potential of their assets. De Soto offers insightful solutions to address this issue and argues that property rights are essential for creating inclusive and prosperous societies.

23 Things They Don't Tell You about Capitalism by Ha-Joon Chang challenges common myths and misconceptions about capitalism. Through insightful analysis and real-world examples, the book reveals the hidden truths behind economic theories and offers thought-provoking ideas for creating a fairer global economy.

The Mystery of Capital by Hernando De Soto delves into the crucial role of property rights in economic development. Through extensive research and analysis, the book explores how the lack of formal property rights in developing countries hinders capital formation and entrepreneurship. De Soto presents thought-provoking ideas on how to unlock the “dead capital” and unleash the potential for prosperity in these regions.

A Brief History of Neoliberalism by David Harvey provides a critical analysis of the rise and spread of neoliberalism as an economic and political ideology. The book explores how neoliberal policies have shaped our world, from deregulation and privatization to the widening gap between the rich and the poor. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the consequences of embracing free market principles.

Bad Samaritans by Ha-Joon Chang challenges the belief that free market policies are the only way for developing countries to succeed. Through a compelling blend of economic history, theory, and real-world examples, Chang argues that the rich and powerful nations often impose harmful policies on the developing world, hindering their economic growth. A thought-provoking book that provides a fresh perspective on global economics.

Caliban and the Witch by Silvia Federici is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of capitalism, patriarchy, and the witch hunts in Europe. Through detailed historical analysis, the book challenges traditional narratives and uncovers the links between the persecution of women as witches and the rise of capitalism. It offers a compelling argument for the importance of understanding this history in order to challenge and transform our current social and economic systems.

'Four Futures' by Peter Frase explores the potential paths our society could take in response to increasing automation and climate change. Through thought-provoking analysis, Frase presents four possible future scenarios of communism, rentism, socialism, and exterminism. This book challenges readers to consider the consequences of our current economic and political decisions and offers a compelling vision for a more equitable world.

Globalization and Its Discontents by Joseph E. Stiglitz delves into the negative impacts of globalization on developing countries and the global economy. Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, offers a critical analysis of the policies and institutions that have contributed to widening inequality and economic instability. He also presents alternative approaches to globalization that prioritize fairness and sustainability.

The Accumulation of Capital by Rosa Luxemburg is a classic work of economic theory that challenges the prevailing ideas of its time. Luxemburg argues that capitalism relies on constant expansion into non-capitalist economies in order to avoid economic collapse. She explores the relationship between capitalism and imperialism, and offers a thought-provoking analysis of the dynamics of economic growth and crisis.

A thought-provoking novel that explores the challenges and complexities of establishing a utopian society on a distant planet. Le Guin delves into themes of power, politics, and the human spirit as she tells the story of a physicist who seeks to bridge the gap between two opposing worlds. Through her rich storytelling and compelling characters, she prompts readers to consider the meaning of true freedom and the consequences of societal structures.

The Great Transformation by Karl Polanyi is a groundbreaking book that examines the societal and economic changes brought about by the rise of market economies in the 19th and 20th centuries. Polanyi argues that the commodification of land, labor, and money led to the disintegration of traditional social structures and the degradation of human well-being. He calls for a reevaluation of the role of the economy in society and offers insights into the potential consequences of unregulated markets.